Theater, in the United States of ethnic origin, is deeply rooted in a miscellany of historical and cultural backgrounds. Each particular form of theater arrived in the US in conjunction with the migration patterns. Some migration efforts were voluntary while others were not. As time progressed and these ethnic-specific theaters gained traction, so did the hatred of their "invading" presence. Many immigrants were at a disadvantage because of their social-economic and educational status. Many sought theater out as an escape from ordinary life. With ethnic theater, came the opportunity to educate the ill-informed audience. To do this, their acts included native literature, language, and history unbeknownst to the average theater-goer. During harsh times, ethnic theaters received local support from sponsors such as youth groups, labor unions, and churches. After hitting their peak in the early 1900s, a steady decline emerged in correlation with immigration laws. In later decades, it would make a comeback due to post-WWII ideologies and interests. Today, the ethnic theater serves as a reminder of our rich history and the diversity within it.